Things To Do
in Shizuishan

Shizuishan is a vibrant city located in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China, nestled between the Helan Mountains and the Yellow River. It is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a unique blend of ethnic cultures, primarily featuring the Hui people. As a key industrial hub, it boasts various mining and manufacturing industries, while also promoting tourism through its natural scenery and cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy a mixture of modern amenities and traditional charm in this lesser-known yet captivating destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Shizuishan
morning
:

Visit the Shizuishan Museum to learn about local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the beautiful Yinchuan City Park and enjoy a peaceful walk along the river.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant to experience authentic Ningxia cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the Helan Mountains for stunning views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby ancient village of Xiji, known for its traditional architecture.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife in a popular tea house or bar in Shizuishan.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a restaurant$5
Cup of coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$20
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic influences.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transportation may require patience.
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom, please?
  • "我想要这个" - I want this
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Shizuishan

Visit one of these nice places.

Helan Mountains

Offers breathtaking landscapes and stunning sunsets, perfect for nature photography.

Yellow River Scenic Area

Features picturesque views and opportunities to capture the river's beauty.

Ancient Xiji Village

An ideal location for photographing traditional architecture and local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shizuishan

Shizuishan offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its rich cultural diversity. Local dishes emphasize fresh ingredients and a unique blend of flavors, making it a foodie’s paradise.

Shizuishan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yangrou Paomo

A traditional meat and bread soup, often enjoyed with lamb.

Must-Try!

Ningxia Noodles

Wheat noodles served with various toppings, often spicy.

Hui-style Dumplings

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shizuishan Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food, including skewers, noodles, and desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shizuishan experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to -10°C (14°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

Always greet and offer your seat to elders as a sign of respect.

Dining etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and use chopsticks correctly.

Public behavior

Maintain a calm demeanor in public places, avoiding loud conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shizuishan is generally safe for travelers, but it's always wise to remain vigilant in crowded areas. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious when using public transport at night. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Shizuishan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill for excellent service is appreciated.

Payment methods

Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; cash is also used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and blooming flowers.

Summer

Can get quite hot, so stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage make it a beautiful time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Chilly weather; dress warmly, but the snow-capped mountains offer stunning views.

Nightlife Guide

Shizuishan at Night

Shizuishan's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, mostly centered around tea houses, local bars, and night markets. You can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, live music, or simply unwind with friends in a cozy environment. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals are often open to meeting new people.

Hiking in Shizuishan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ningxia Helan Mountain National Nature Reserve

Features well-marked trails with stunning views of unique rock formations and diverse flora and fauna.

Songshan Lake Trail

A scenic trail around a picturesque lake, perfect for leisurely hikes and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Shizuishan by plane.

Yinchuan Hedong International Airport

Approximately 80 km from Shizuishan, this airport connects to major Chinese cities. It offers both domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shizuishan is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic and street vendors. For longer distances, public transportation or taxis are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hui People

A predominantly Muslim ethnic group known for their rich cultural traditions and cuisine.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in China, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Shizuishan.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular sport among the youth, with many local courts available.

Football (Soccer)

Widely played in schools and local clubs, fostering community spirit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shizuishan can be busy during peak hours, especially near markets and schools. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Biking is also a popular mode of transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shizuishan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Halal Food

Due to the Hui population, numerous halal food options are available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Shizuishan are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals provide a range of services, but it's advisable to have travel insurance. Pharmacies are also common for minor ailments and over-the-counter medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide